City Hall Live returns to outdoor stages this summer, with an impressive lineup of free performances that includes lunchtime shows at Nathan Phillips Square and Union Station. City Hall Live provides local artists with paid opportunities to perform across the city, showcasing the diverse musical sounds of Toronto.

Local live music will be presented at Nathan Phillips Square from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. on Wednesdays (except August 7) until September 11, hosted by music and entertainment reporter Rudy Blair. Soul artist Aphrose will bring her soaring R&B vocal stylings to the stage today, followed next week by Keerat Kaur with her own distinct genre, combining Indian classical, Bollywood, blues and jazz.

The full City Hall Live performance schedule is available at http://bit.ly/2WEpIvp and social media users can follow #CityHallLive for schedule updates. On-site sponsors include Toronto Water, Live Green Toronto, Planet Fitness, Communauto and Pure Leaf.

While enjoying the music at Nathan Phillips Square on Wednesdays, you can “shop local” at the Farmers Market, which offers many fresh food options and runs from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. each Wednesday until October 16.

Preceding City Hall Live, the City of Toronto presents Yoga in the Square every Wednesday from noon to 12:30 p.m., weather permitting, until September 11. Led by instructor Charlotte Singmin, members of the public are invited to take a wellness lunch break with family, friends and co-workers. Participants should bring a yoga mat, water bottle and sunscreen protection to this free session.

Other City Hall Live performances include shows at Union Summer outside Union Station from noon to 1 p.m. Tuesdays until July 30 and at Cultura Festival at Mel Lastman Square, 6 p.m. every Friday in July.
Toronto-based musicians interested in being considered for bookings through City Hall Live, YYZ Live, and other opportunities co-curated by the City’s music team can apply at http://www.toronto.ca/music.

City Hall Live was created by the City of Toronto to provide more paid live music opportunities for the city’s vibrant and varied talent. Since 2016, this free concert series has provided performance opportunities for more than 140 acts – directly impacting at least 350 musicians – and has been attended by about 45,000 people. More information about Toronto’s music sector and the City’s music-based initiatives and programs is available at http://www.toronto.ca/music.

“City Hall Live is a wonderful way to discover and experience Toronto’s exceptionally talented musicians. It also allows for exciting collaborations with the City and Toronto’s music community, including local organizations, venues, events and presenters.”
– Mayor John Tory